Here’s Lookin’ at You, Kid!

Last night we celebrated Ellie’s completion of eleven full years of life. As an eleven-year-old now, she’s in that awkward present-buying stage where she’s too old for the simple toys of childhood yet too young for presents like, oh, diamond necklaces and such. So, we refrained and she got to enjoy unbejeweled, simple gifts like this compact mirror, a detangling brush, and Chap-Stick.

Thankfully, we had grandma and grandpa on hand to bring out the big guns with a brand-new bike! Sure, it’s not diamond-encrusted, but Spring is upon us and it’s time to get out and ride!

Happy Birthday, Ellie!

» #photography #iphoneography #birthday #daughter #celebration

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Ellie × Ten!

Last Monday my little lady, Elisabeth Rose, completed her tenth year and we were delighted to grant her birthday wish: a trip to McDonalds and his bacterial nightmare Playland. Ellie’s friend, Sierra, came along for the fun (on Ellie’s left), and she truly made Ellie’s birthday complete. Here, Ellie’s enjoying her birthday cards while her sister, Juli, her brother, AJ, and Sierra read along,

Ellie’s first decade with us has been a delightful blast. I’m so proud of her sensitive, tender heart; her creative eye and love of colors and patterns; and her bright, toothy smile. She’s a total Daddy’s girl and has me utterly wrapped around her little finger!

I love this age and can’t believe ten years has already passed, but I look forward to every surprise she reveals in the next decade.

Happy birthday, Ellie!

» #photography #iphoneography
#daughter #birthday #celebration #beauty #love #family

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AJ’s adolescence advent: Happy birthday!

We celebrated AJ’s 13th birthday yesterday—we’re now the proud parents of a feisty, brilliant teen! My little boy’s really growing up—and I am insanely proud.

My son has ADHD. Because of the hyperactivity and medication he has a high metabolism and a reduced appetite… requiring constant reminders to complete his meals. So, he’s always been very thin and underdeveloped. But in the past couple months I’ve noticed a growth spurt and an incredible muscular bulking-up—he’s become very, very strong.

But what I noticed yesterday was his joyful response to every gift and card he received. His laughter was genuine, spontaneous and delightful all who were near.

As AJ continues to grow and mature in every way—physically, emotionally, socially and spiritually—I pray every gift he receives is greeted with similar joy.

Happy birthday, son!

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